Dust settles on another argument br Parental imposition for own good br I look in on you on my way to bed, dissatisfied. br Eyes just open, defiant, seeming betrayed br I kiss your cheek, cuddle your shoulder, whisper 'I love you'. br Drowsy but wiry you quip a soft, sad refrain. br 'Everyone's allowed to be scared of something! ' br The fire flares again br 'I'm sorry'. br 'You can't be so aggressive and then be so scared it makes me angry.' br You retort but it tapers and falls… br 'It's late and I'm not going to argue, good night! ' br I withdraw and slowly arc the door, br 'I love you, ' soft and sincere, br 'I love you too, ' the door closes.